Returning to action after missing the last game with a right shoulder injury, quarterback Arnaud Desjardins no longer looked rusty.
The Rouge et Or veteran from Laval University scored four touchdowns. Desjardins completed 22 of 28 passes for 356 yards. “I’m not rusty yet and I wanted to take advantage of this as this is one of my last matches with PEPS,” he stressed. As a veteran, I didn't panic despite the 14-0 deficit. We were able to overcome such a deficit on offense, and I knew the defense would come back.”
Desjardins was surprised by the Redbirds' defensive strategy. “You have to choose what you are going to concede, but playing man-to-man defense against us is not the best decision,” he explained. In such circumstances it becomes quite easy for me. I know Olivier will win his one-on-one fights and I am confident that we will make defenses using this strategy effective. The defense was great.”
Desjardins wasn't bothered by the injury he suffered on Oct. 19 against the Université de Montréal Carabines. “My arm was tired,” he admitted, “but I didn’t feel any pain.”
Jérémie Ouellette has seen his fair share of games since starting at Sherbrooke last Saturday. He completed five of six passes for 75 yards, threw two touchdown passes and rushed for 24 yards on four carries.
“Jeremie is a super athlete and he made a big contribution,” Desjardins said. I'm not surprised because he's an exceptional player.”
Isaac Gaillardets' two touchdowns
With six receptions for 82 yards, Isaac Gaillardets reached the end zone twice. “It's nice to contribute, but it wouldn't have mattered if we didn't win. It wasn't a good idea to play man-to-man defense against us. At McGill, our ground attack played strong and the roles were reversed this time.”
“Despite the delay, no one was nervous,” added the 5th year receptionist. The game was still young and McGill took advantage of the wind at his back in the first quarter. In the second quarter we played more aggressively, taking advantage of the wind. Our offensive coordinator (Justin Ethier) called plays the best way he could.
Protection is back in force
Jacob Jinchero was very pleased with how the defense responded, scoring 14 points in the first quarter. “I’m really proud of the guys,” the third-year guard said. This was not the desired starting scenario, but for the future it is good that we survived the adversity. We didn't react very well during the Montreal match when trouble struck, but this time we reacted without flinching. It was unpleasant for us from the very beginning, but we adapted well.”
Ginchereau finished with 1.5 sacks and defensive end Alexandre Benoit had an interception for the third straight game.
